Munster 20 Dragons 12 : Irish overcome yellow cards for victory

Munster launched the defence of their title in perfect fashion as they overcame a numerical disadvantage to triumph over the Dragons

Mick O'Driscoll and Robert Sidoli vie for the ball at the lineout (Matt Browne)

Champions Munster got the defence of their RaboDirect Pro12 title off to a
winning start but they made it hard on themselves with three players
receiving yellow cards in the second-half. Yet, Tony McGahan’s men were able
to deal with the numerical disadvantage — not to mention their missing Irish
stars — and carve out a victory against a Dragons side who offered little.

In the process Munster equalled the longest winning run in the competition,
set by Leinster in 2002, and now they will try and set a new record when
they go for their 12th win on the trot when they travel to Glasgow next
weekend.

The yellow cards will be a source of concern to McGahan - they also received
three the previous week against London Irish - but he will be pleased with
the way they got on top after a sluggish opening. He has targeted victory in
their home